Mamelodi Sundowns defender Ricardo Nascimento says he ‘felt confident coming back’ after a long-term injury sidelined him for most of the 2019-20 season.

The 33-year-old recently returned to Sundowns’ starting lineup after suffering a long-term groin injury.

After completing his physiotherapy and rehabilitation in Brazil, Nascimento has managed to score one goal and featured nine times for the Brazilians before the league was suspended.

‘I did my operation and rehab at home in Brazil. My recovery was great and I felt confident coming back that I could play at my best,’ Nascimento told his club’s official website.

‘I have played nine games this season, I feel good and happy – I missed football after six months on the sidelines. Training like this is good, but it’s not the same thing. I miss the ball and the pitch. It’s tough, I felt like I was picking up steam and hungry to add value to the team.’

Nascimento, who previously played in Brazil, Portugal and Romania, admits that he feels at home and settled in South Africa.

‘I have spent four years here, South Africa is like my second home – SA was a lovely surprise. I came from Europe and Portugal where I had played for over six years,’ he added.

‘At first, when I initially got the offer, I was sceptical – having not watched any PSL games but it’s been a great surprise.

‘I think the league will kick off, but the most important thing right now is the coronavirus. We all need to be safe and then get back on the pitch.’

The former Moreirense defender has scored 13 goals and created one assist from 101 appearances since joining the club from Brazilian outfit Atlético Monte Azul in July 2016.